The Regional Municipality of Cornwallils issued an immediate burn ban and cancelled permits on May 22 to assist with fire prevention. “Burning is allowed only in enclosed fire pits, fire bowls, chimineas, and other outdoor receptacles (burn barrels) with a spark arrestor and a grille or mesh covering all openings … Solid-fuel-burning appliances, such as charcoal barbeques and smokers, are also permitted… Burning must be under constant supervision,” a statement read. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)
K-J Millar
Shilo Stag Media
An immediate, ongoing burn ban is in place, effective May 22, in the Regional Municipality of Cornwallis.
Under the level two fire ban, no permits for controlled burns will be issued, and all current permits are suspended.
“As a further fire prevention measure, burn permits issued are cancelled and will not be issued until fire danger conditions improve. Further restrictions may be implemented if the fire danger levels increase or conditions change significantly,” the R.M. stated in a notice to the community.
The ban is to promote fire prevention and safety measures to protect residents, property, and emergency responders,” the regional municipality’s webpage states.
“This would not apply to the residential housing units (RHUs), [on base], as all of this is already banned. It is a good reminder for members and families who are living off the Base in Sprucewoods and other areas,” CFB Fire and Emergency Services Chief Aaron Bull said.
“On CFB Shilo, we don’t allow open fires, fireworks, etc., without written approval. So, [the ban] won’t really change much. It is a good reminder that our neighbours all have fire bans, and we need to be extra careful.”
The Cornwallis burn notice specifies that all open fires are prohibited between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
“Fires outside of these hours must be in an approved CSA-certified fire pit (this includes campfires) … Burning is allowed only in enclosed fire pits, fire bowls, chimineas, and other outdoor receptacles (burn barrels) with a spark arrestor and a grille or mesh covering all openings … Solid-fuel-burning appliances, such as charcoal barbeques and smokers, are also permitted… Burning must be under constant supervision.”
As well, the R.M noted, motorized backcountry travel, including ATVs and other off-road vehicles, is prohibited during specified hours of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.”
The use of commercial or consumer fireworks is prohibited.
Ban is effective until further notice.
“Exercise caution when outdoors. Prevent equipment-caused wildfires: * Keep machinery clean and in good repair. Avoid driving/parking in long-cured grass.”
✅ Important:
All outdoor fires must be under constant supervision at all times.
All outdoor fires must be under constant supervision at all times.
For each new burn, a permit must be obtained from the R.M. office.
With the exception of bonfires and barbeques, burning shall be restricted to daytime hours.
For the use of fireworks, please contact the R.M of Cornwallis Office for more information.
Brandon Fire Department: (204) 729-2410
Shilo Fire Department: (204) 765-3000 Ext. 3178
Wawanesa Fire Department: (204) 824-3444
Please check the RM of Cornwallis Burning By-Law to see what your area is allowed.
For more information on the current Manitoba wildfire conditions, please click here.
